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Escape to New Zealand #15
Just for Me
Luke Armstrong doesn’t want to be a pioneer or an inspiration. He just wants to be a prop.
What’s it like to be the first All Black to come out while he’s still playing rugby? Luke has spent over thirty years not wanting to find out, but hiding has become so hard. He’s a man who doesn’t get tired, but now, he’s soul-weary.
Hayden Allen knows that if you keep that smile on your face, they won’t know they’ve hurt you. Never let them see you sweat, that’s his motto. What happens, though, when everything you’ve never realized you needed shows up bang in front of you?
Every man has his limits. And even the strongest man can fall.
What’s it like to be the first All Black to come out while he’s still playing rugby? Luke has spent over thirty years not wanting to find out, but hiding has become so hard. He’s a man who doesn’t get tired, but now, he’s soul-weary.
Hayden Allen knows that if you keep that smile on your face, they won’t know they’ve hurt you. Never let them see you sweat, that’s his motto. What happens, though, when everything you’ve never realized you needed shows up bang in front of you?
Every man has his limits. And even the strongest man can fall.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2023
140 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Rosalind James
55 books1,219 followersRosalind James writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense published both by Montlake Romance and independently. Her stories are set in New Zealand, Idaho, California, New York . . . really, anyplace that seems cool. (Research trips, especially those involving lots of rugby, are a bonus.) Her books are available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. Rosalind is a former marketing executive who spent several years in Australia and New Zealand, where she fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the culture of both countries. She attributes her rapid success to the fact that "Lots of people would like to escape to New Zealand! I know I did!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 8, 2023
Superbly Beautiful Story!
Just for Me , as all of Rosalind's books, was superbly written. A same sex romance can be difficult for some people to read because people are scared of what they do not know. This novella is a perfect story to break through that wall if you are struggling to understand a child or a friend in your life. It gives you insight and understanding as to the complexity of emotions involved with coming out, telling your family, fighting prejudice and finding love. So if you are hunting a story to ease you into a sense of understanding then this story is it.
Now, for the rest of us, I loved Luke and Hayden in the previous Escape to New Zealand books and I was so excited when I found out Rosalind was giving us their story! Hayden has this humor and sarcasm that hides his hurt but Luke makes my heart bleed. He is so tender and so kind and deserves so much. You just want to find him and hug him. These two finding each other and overcoming all obstacles will really make your heart smile big, BIG! There's humor, as usual, and everything is handled with care and attention to emotions like only Rosalind can do! She has a way of making you hope that her characters are real people and they are out there somewhere living beautiful lives. This book is no exception!
Just for Me , as all of Rosalind's books, was superbly written. A same sex romance can be difficult for some people to read because people are scared of what they do not know. This novella is a perfect story to break through that wall if you are struggling to understand a child or a friend in your life. It gives you insight and understanding as to the complexity of emotions involved with coming out, telling your family, fighting prejudice and finding love. So if you are hunting a story to ease you into a sense of understanding then this story is it.
Now, for the rest of us, I loved Luke and Hayden in the previous Escape to New Zealand books and I was so excited when I found out Rosalind was giving us their story! Hayden has this humor and sarcasm that hides his hurt but Luke makes my heart bleed. He is so tender and so kind and deserves so much. You just want to find him and hug him. These two finding each other and overcoming all obstacles will really make your heart smile big, BIG! There's humor, as usual, and everything is handled with care and attention to emotions like only Rosalind can do! She has a way of making you hope that her characters are real people and they are out there somewhere living beautiful lives. This book is no exception!
July 2, 2024
Four and a half stars.
I first read this as part of an anthology, but felt in need of a pick-me-up so read it again. We have seen some of this story in previous books, notably Just Say (Hell) No which was Marko and Nyree's book and Just Come Over which was Rhys and Zora's book.
So Luke is Nyree's half-brother. He's a professional rugby player, as is his younger brother Kane, which is unsurprising since his father Grant was the All Blacks coach for many years. Luke left NZ for Europe and now plays for a Paris rugby team, with a British mother he has also captained England. What no-one knows because he has kept it a closely guarded secret, even from his family, is that Luke is gay. But after his latest romance goes South because of the secrecy, Luke worries that he is suppressing too much. The one thing he can do is go back to NZ for his sister's wedding and take some of the heat of their father's displeasure off her shoulders.
Hayden is Zora's openly gay brother, a New Zealand contract lawyer, he's just found out that his boyfriend has got back together with his ex, without bothering to tell Hayden. Definitely a case of having his cake and wanting it too. Not only that, but he makes it very clear that Hayden was only temporary, a fling, before the two of them got back together, because Hayden is too boring, too pedestrian, too middle-class to be a long-term thing.
Hayden and Luke meet at Zora's where Nyree is painting a beautiful mural on Rhys' daughter Casey's bedroom, having previously painted Zora's son Isaiah's ceiling, as the wedding is rapidly approaching she has enlisted everyone to help. Both instantly smitten, Luke can't imagine what a sophisticated, cultured man like Hayden could see in a hairy, taciturn, scarred bear of a man like him, whereas Hayden can't imagine what appeal a boring talkative lawyer could have for a strong, internationally famous athlete.
But is Luke willing to be out-out with his team as well as his friends and family, and how can a relationship work when one of you lives in Paris and the other lives in New Zealand?
This was just delicious from start to finish. Luke and Hayden were such a lovely couple and I'm glad we got to see more of them.
Loved it just as much second read.
Read on my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I first read this as part of an anthology, but felt in need of a pick-me-up so read it again. We have seen some of this story in previous books, notably Just Say (Hell) No which was Marko and Nyree's book and Just Come Over which was Rhys and Zora's book.
So Luke is Nyree's half-brother. He's a professional rugby player, as is his younger brother Kane, which is unsurprising since his father Grant was the All Blacks coach for many years. Luke left NZ for Europe and now plays for a Paris rugby team, with a British mother he has also captained England. What no-one knows because he has kept it a closely guarded secret, even from his family, is that Luke is gay. But after his latest romance goes South because of the secrecy, Luke worries that he is suppressing too much. The one thing he can do is go back to NZ for his sister's wedding and take some of the heat of their father's displeasure off her shoulders.
Hayden is Zora's openly gay brother, a New Zealand contract lawyer, he's just found out that his boyfriend has got back together with his ex, without bothering to tell Hayden. Definitely a case of having his cake and wanting it too. Not only that, but he makes it very clear that Hayden was only temporary, a fling, before the two of them got back together, because Hayden is too boring, too pedestrian, too middle-class to be a long-term thing.
Hayden and Luke meet at Zora's where Nyree is painting a beautiful mural on Rhys' daughter Casey's bedroom, having previously painted Zora's son Isaiah's ceiling, as the wedding is rapidly approaching she has enlisted everyone to help. Both instantly smitten, Luke can't imagine what a sophisticated, cultured man like Hayden could see in a hairy, taciturn, scarred bear of a man like him, whereas Hayden can't imagine what appeal a boring talkative lawyer could have for a strong, internationally famous athlete.
But is Luke willing to be out-out with his team as well as his friends and family, and how can a relationship work when one of you lives in Paris and the other lives in New Zealand?
This was just delicious from start to finish. Luke and Hayden were such a lovely couple and I'm glad we got to see more of them.
Loved it just as much second read.
Read on my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
May 25, 2024
Touching, difficult, memorable
This love story of two men was, in a few ways, hard to read. It is sensitively written and highlights just how difficult the world can be for those who are “different.” Paraphrasing from Hamlet, it is also a reminder that there are more things in heaven and earth, than are dreamt of in our own personal philosophy. We would do well to remember that before we judge how other people live and love.
On the down side, there were a few character elements that strayed into the territory of stereotype with one of the two characters. However, the occasional stereotype of one character, Hayden, is offset by the fact that the other character, Luke, is about as against stereotype for a gay person as it’s possible to be. He is a star rugby player playing one of the toughest positions in the game. He is also Captain of the England team, a former All Black, and a player/leaser on a French team. He is a gay man in one of the world’s toughest sports where the players are often described as needing “leather balls,” if you get my drift. The pairing of these two is both interesting and touching.
The author does a good job, I think, of showcasing the struggles of these two as they navigate an often hostile world in order to have a relationship. I’ll be thinking about this one for a while.
This love story of two men was, in a few ways, hard to read. It is sensitively written and highlights just how difficult the world can be for those who are “different.” Paraphrasing from Hamlet, it is also a reminder that there are more things in heaven and earth, than are dreamt of in our own personal philosophy. We would do well to remember that before we judge how other people live and love.
On the down side, there were a few character elements that strayed into the territory of stereotype with one of the two characters. However, the occasional stereotype of one character, Hayden, is offset by the fact that the other character, Luke, is about as against stereotype for a gay person as it’s possible to be. He is a star rugby player playing one of the toughest positions in the game. He is also Captain of the England team, a former All Black, and a player/leaser on a French team. He is a gay man in one of the world’s toughest sports where the players are often described as needing “leather balls,” if you get my drift. The pairing of these two is both interesting and touching.
The author does a good job, I think, of showcasing the struggles of these two as they navigate an often hostile world in order to have a relationship. I’ll be thinking about this one for a while.
September 12, 2023
Strong as Oak
Since we met Luke and Hayden I wanted their story. I am so in love with them and seeing how these strong men found their perfect complement has been a pleasure.
Luke has hidden himself his whole life so he could do what he loves in the rugby pitch. He is an amazing man, leader and player, yet who he loves could destroy his career. Luke has always been such a physically strong and dependable person, the epitome of manliness, and his struggle to find the courage to come out is heart wrenching. Then we have Hayden, who has lived his truth his whole life, is an amazing brother, uncle and person who has been hurt and heartbroken more than once, yet he stays hopeful that he’ll find a love he can trust.
The realness of Luke’s coming out, the vulnerability of Hayden trusting another man after his recent heartbreak, both of them trying to figure out their long distance relationship and how to freely love each other without loosing it all is a beautiful read. I cried and I laughed with them.
They both have mana, they both deserve each other and all the happily ever afters. As always, my heart is full after finishing a Rosalind James book.
Since we met Luke and Hayden I wanted their story. I am so in love with them and seeing how these strong men found their perfect complement has been a pleasure.
Luke has hidden himself his whole life so he could do what he loves in the rugby pitch. He is an amazing man, leader and player, yet who he loves could destroy his career. Luke has always been such a physically strong and dependable person, the epitome of manliness, and his struggle to find the courage to come out is heart wrenching. Then we have Hayden, who has lived his truth his whole life, is an amazing brother, uncle and person who has been hurt and heartbroken more than once, yet he stays hopeful that he’ll find a love he can trust.
The realness of Luke’s coming out, the vulnerability of Hayden trusting another man after his recent heartbreak, both of them trying to figure out their long distance relationship and how to freely love each other without loosing it all is a beautiful read. I cried and I laughed with them.
They both have mana, they both deserve each other and all the happily ever afters. As always, my heart is full after finishing a Rosalind James book.
January 21, 2024
I have never been to New Zealand but Ms James has a way with words and I feel like I know this country and her characters, I have fallen in love just by reading her wonderful words and Just For Me is a wonderful addition to the Escape to New Zealand Series. I was drawn in to Luke and Hayden’s journey from the first few pages and there was no putting down until the final word was read.
We have met Luke and Hayden in previous books but it’s now time fir them to get their own story and it’s a story thats entertaining but it will also tug on your heartstrings as this couple work through the issues that being in a MM relationship can have. Luke is afraid his career will be at risk whilst Hayden is the laid back partner who deals with problems is a different way, so what does the future hold …..one click now to find out.
I loved everything about this read, I loved catching up with familiar faces from previous books but what took this book to another level was the depth and strength of the characters, Luke and Hayden. This is a well written book with characters you can’t help loving.
We have met Luke and Hayden in previous books but it’s now time fir them to get their own story and it’s a story thats entertaining but it will also tug on your heartstrings as this couple work through the issues that being in a MM relationship can have. Luke is afraid his career will be at risk whilst Hayden is the laid back partner who deals with problems is a different way, so what does the future hold …..one click now to find out.
I loved everything about this read, I loved catching up with familiar faces from previous books but what took this book to another level was the depth and strength of the characters, Luke and Hayden. This is a well written book with characters you can’t help loving.
September 26, 2023
I have read/listened to everything written by Rosalind James. I found her years ago and have followed her every since. This was shorter than some of her books and longer than others. The storyline was heavy and the characters easy to like. It's always good to see characters from book to book. I didn't quite feel the relationship between Luke and Hayden. I did feel the heartache from each of their past relationships and the family members horrible reactions/actions. My heart squeezed in pain often. They happy ever after was soothing. I cannot wait for the next book written by Rosalind James.
I waited to post my review of the book until I could listen to it as well. I was hoping the narrator would change my mind about how I felt. There was definitely some emotional change.
Emma Wilder is an excellent narrator. She has always been a favorite of mine. She performs both male and female voices well. An emotional performance that was rolling in my head like a movie.
I waited to post my review of the book until I could listen to it as well. I was hoping the narrator would change my mind about how I felt. There was definitely some emotional change.
Emma Wilder is an excellent narrator. She has always been a favorite of mine. She performs both male and female voices well. An emotional performance that was rolling in my head like a movie.
September 30, 2023
Beautiful!
My first, or maybe second, time reading a romance between two gay people. Maybe I've read more. I don't know. It was special. The intimate scenes were very discreet. It was a very enjoyable read. No drama or trauma near the end to juice up the ending. Just an unfolding of the story and the love.
Why do I picture Luke as Shrek? and who would I picture as Hayden? I picture Hayden as a short but fit robust fellow from the description, but the pair seem a Laurel and Hardy duo. Luke just unfurls more than Hayden. Hayden is all Luke wants to become and has always hidden. Hayden wants all the Luke is. The strength, the companionship, the solidity, and the honesty.
I feel I know Hayden better than Luke. I have read their story in the earlier books, but Luke's personality is just salt of the earth.
Thank you, Rosalind, for your tender and insightful telling of this beautiful romance. Be well. I'd like to read many more books written by you. ❤️
My first, or maybe second, time reading a romance between two gay people. Maybe I've read more. I don't know. It was special. The intimate scenes were very discreet. It was a very enjoyable read. No drama or trauma near the end to juice up the ending. Just an unfolding of the story and the love.
Why do I picture Luke as Shrek? and who would I picture as Hayden? I picture Hayden as a short but fit robust fellow from the description, but the pair seem a Laurel and Hardy duo. Luke just unfurls more than Hayden. Hayden is all Luke wants to become and has always hidden. Hayden wants all the Luke is. The strength, the companionship, the solidity, and the honesty.
I feel I know Hayden better than Luke. I have read their story in the earlier books, but Luke's personality is just salt of the earth.
Thank you, Rosalind, for your tender and insightful telling of this beautiful romance. Be well. I'd like to read many more books written by you. ❤️
February 19, 2024
Luke and Hayden's HEA! 4.5***** Spoiler Alert!
Hayden, lawyer and Zora's gay bro, fresh from a cheating, break up with Julian, met Luke Armstrong, French rugby player, as he came to help his sister, Nyree paint Casey's mural and attend her wedding to Marko Sedona. There he, Luke, came out to Kane, his bro, Nyree, Rhys, and his dad, Grant. That last one did not go well but, his bro, sis, bro-in-law, and Rhy s had his back. After a whirlwind NZ romance, Luke returned to France, and England, where upon Hayden's surprise visit, he revealed his love for Hayden to his team mates and the press. Luke and Hayden both retired, to construction biz, after getting married. HEA for alk, and the kuds, Isaiah and Harry had their scientific facts in support of homosexuality in the animal kingdom. A Must-Read on being true to oneself and communication with each other.
02/15/24- 02/18/24. COVID-19 PresWkEd,'24, HSTrpMP62...
Hayden, lawyer and Zora's gay bro, fresh from a cheating, break up with Julian, met Luke Armstrong, French rugby player, as he came to help his sister, Nyree paint Casey's mural and attend her wedding to Marko Sedona. There he, Luke, came out to Kane, his bro, Nyree, Rhys, and his dad, Grant. That last one did not go well but, his bro, sis, bro-in-law, and Rhy s had his back. After a whirlwind NZ romance, Luke returned to France, and England, where upon Hayden's surprise visit, he revealed his love for Hayden to his team mates and the press. Luke and Hayden both retired, to construction biz, after getting married. HEA for alk, and the kuds, Isaiah and Harry had their scientific facts in support of homosexuality in the animal kingdom. A Must-Read on being true to oneself and communication with each other.
02/15/24- 02/18/24. COVID-19 PresWkEd,'24, HSTrpMP62...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2023
This is a standalone, although we’ve met Luke & Hayden in other of Rosalind’s books. So glad that they got the space and time to have their own story. These two fit beautifully together, their differences are each other’s perfect compliment. Despite their professional achievements, they both have personal insecurities and fears. Luke’s bravery at refusing to hide himself from his family and team-mates any longer was humbling. Loved the reactions of his team-mates & majority of their friends and family. It felt believable, especially the odd negative reaction. Liked Hayden’s willingness to put himself out there despite his previous bad relationship experience. What resonated most with me was the maori quote which broadly translates to courage has many resting places. It said everything about these two in a few simple words.
September 12, 2023
Love is love is love
Loved this book! I've been a huge fan of this series since the first book. That was how I discovered Rosalind James, who has become one of my favorite authors. Not a clunker in the bunch.
This story, Luke and Hayden's was just so very sweet and insightful. She really thoughtfully conveyed all the feelings, fear, hope, and angst of their difficult situation. (Which really shouldn't have to be difficult, because who they love is no ones business but their own ) They are one of my favorite couples, so far...but I think that after every book in this series. We do get to visit with many of the previous couples, as well.
I also enjoy the kiwi dictionary at the end of each book. Plus there are always links to videos and websites to see different items, rugby plays, music, etc that was featured in the books.
Loved this book! I've been a huge fan of this series since the first book. That was how I discovered Rosalind James, who has become one of my favorite authors. Not a clunker in the bunch.
This story, Luke and Hayden's was just so very sweet and insightful. She really thoughtfully conveyed all the feelings, fear, hope, and angst of their difficult situation. (Which really shouldn't have to be difficult, because who they love is no ones business but their own ) They are one of my favorite couples, so far...but I think that after every book in this series. We do get to visit with many of the previous couples, as well.
I also enjoy the kiwi dictionary at the end of each book. Plus there are always links to videos and websites to see different items, rugby plays, music, etc that was featured in the books.
November 7, 2023
This is one of those books, where if you have read the other books in the series, the main characters, especially Hayden, seem more like old friends than a character and as a reader I was just really happy for them finding each other and being happy and accepted.
I enjoyed everything about this book, from the story to the chemistry, but especially the coming out elements of the book. I am reading this from a straight POV, but I do think this book captures the unique time in LGBTQ history and specifically the generation that Hayden and Luke are part of. I am glad that James explored these characters and the familial and societal pressures they faced, and the support they found in each other and those around them. It is always good to be able to close a book and think that you just read about a healthy relationship.
I enjoyed everything about this book, from the story to the chemistry, but especially the coming out elements of the book. I am reading this from a straight POV, but I do think this book captures the unique time in LGBTQ history and specifically the generation that Hayden and Luke are part of. I am glad that James explored these characters and the familial and societal pressures they faced, and the support they found in each other and those around them. It is always good to be able to close a book and think that you just read about a healthy relationship.
September 9, 2023
5 Star Review Just For Me (Escape to New Zealand #15) by Rosalind James
Having read a number of books from Rosalind James I was excited to read Just For Me. As with other books in the series, her descriptive writing brought New Zealand to life for me.
From start to finish I was hooked in the story she wove; there was so much going on that I simply could not put this one down. Having met both Luke and Hayden before I could not wait see what Ms. James had in store for these two.
I felt for Luke, he wants to live his true life but is concerned he could damage his career whilst Hayden is a little more laid back, although he too has concerns. The struggles both of them go through were handled well by Ms. James.
It was wonderful to see some familiar characters pop up which added an additional layer to my enjoyment. Just For Me was well written with strong characters that I found I could easily relate too and a story line that kept me invested.
Having read a number of books from Rosalind James I was excited to read Just For Me. As with other books in the series, her descriptive writing brought New Zealand to life for me.
From start to finish I was hooked in the story she wove; there was so much going on that I simply could not put this one down. Having met both Luke and Hayden before I could not wait see what Ms. James had in store for these two.
I felt for Luke, he wants to live his true life but is concerned he could damage his career whilst Hayden is a little more laid back, although he too has concerns. The struggles both of them go through were handled well by Ms. James.
It was wonderful to see some familiar characters pop up which added an additional layer to my enjoyment. Just For Me was well written with strong characters that I found I could easily relate too and a story line that kept me invested.
September 29, 2023
THIS WAS THE BEST IF THE SERIES.
I don’t seek out gay love stories. But I’d read about Luke and Hayden in a previous story and I felt they deserved a true love story. Ms. James knocked this out the ballpark. I have witnessed so much ugliness & hostility in my lifetime that this was a joy to read. It’s a story about two adults who find their peace in each others.
Their sexuality is present but the acts are not the focus. ( I live my erotica too but this was not a detailed run down of positions & thrusting.) I’m Like Henry I ain’t worried about who you sleep with as long as you are a decent human being. I’m still smiling from the HEA. It’s truly wonderful when a book leaves you feeling this happy & satisfied. .
I don’t seek out gay love stories. But I’d read about Luke and Hayden in a previous story and I felt they deserved a true love story. Ms. James knocked this out the ballpark. I have witnessed so much ugliness & hostility in my lifetime that this was a joy to read. It’s a story about two adults who find their peace in each others.
Their sexuality is present but the acts are not the focus. ( I live my erotica too but this was not a detailed run down of positions & thrusting.) I’m Like Henry I ain’t worried about who you sleep with as long as you are a decent human being. I’m still smiling from the HEA. It’s truly wonderful when a book leaves you feeling this happy & satisfied. .
October 3, 2023
This is a very sensitively told story of the romance between Luke, a professional rugby player, and Hayden, a lawyer. Hayden has never disguised his sexuality, but for Luke it is a big deal, will it be the end of his career?. He faces a lot of backlash, but he is tired of living a lie, and as the relationship between the pair grows they deal with all the issues together. Luke finds that he has the support of many of his fellow players, which makes it a lot easier for him in his professional career; dealing with opposition from some family members is more difficult.
Despite all the issues they face Luke and Hayden’s relationship grows, and they get their happy ever after moment with a big, extravagant wedding. It is a good story, well told.
Despite all the issues they face Luke and Hayden’s relationship grows, and they get their happy ever after moment with a big, extravagant wedding. It is a good story, well told.
June 3, 2024
Wow! the final of the series adds another terrific twist!
Every one of these books are so enjoyable. Learning about rugby, New Zealand, the ballet, rugby, kids, art, Kiwi, blended families, handsome blokes, beautiful women, neurosurgeons, big dogs, rugby…yep, knowing nothing about rugby at the start, I think I may have become a fan! But I am a fan of this series, and this final for Luke & Heyden really makes you think about how different all our lives are, yet what ties us all together is love, above & beyond it all.
As always, great hanging with favorite characters from some of the other books: Marko, Nyree, Hugh, Josie, Rhys, Zora, Kane, Victoria and all the rest! Will miss them all!
Every one of these books are so enjoyable. Learning about rugby, New Zealand, the ballet, rugby, kids, art, Kiwi, blended families, handsome blokes, beautiful women, neurosurgeons, big dogs, rugby…yep, knowing nothing about rugby at the start, I think I may have become a fan! But I am a fan of this series, and this final for Luke & Heyden really makes you think about how different all our lives are, yet what ties us all together is love, above & beyond it all.
As always, great hanging with favorite characters from some of the other books: Marko, Nyree, Hugh, Josie, Rhys, Zora, Kane, Victoria and all the rest! Will miss them all!
September 9, 2023
Hayden and Luke’s story
Although almost all of Rosalind James’ books are stand-alones, she does build her stories with characters we’ve met before. So if you’ve read her “Escape to New Zealand” series(and if you haven’t, you must)then you’ve been introduced to Hayden and Luke before. If you haven’t read them don’t worry, you’ll be fine. Rosalind has created a beautiful, tender love story that treats the characters with respect, depth and warmth. They help each other overcome the fear of coming out, the what ifs, and truly hold each other up. This book is a true romance. It evokes laughter and tears and will make your heart happy. Another Rosalind James triumph!
Although almost all of Rosalind James’ books are stand-alones, she does build her stories with characters we’ve met before. So if you’ve read her “Escape to New Zealand” series(and if you haven’t, you must)then you’ve been introduced to Hayden and Luke before. If you haven’t read them don’t worry, you’ll be fine. Rosalind has created a beautiful, tender love story that treats the characters with respect, depth and warmth. They help each other overcome the fear of coming out, the what ifs, and truly hold each other up. This book is a true romance. It evokes laughter and tears and will make your heart happy. Another Rosalind James triumph!
March 5, 2024
loved this whole series
I fell in love with this series and New Zealand partway through. Totally by happenstance. I’m a series reader, and that’s my jam so total fluke. When it seemed like it was all coming to an end, I stopped but I had met Hayden and Luke in previous book. I didn’t know that I needed to go on. One of the reasons I love this author is that her characters are so engaging and emotional and on spot. There’s not perfection just honesty. This was my favorite book of the series. Which is hard to say because I’ve loved everyone of these people in all their brutal honesty.
I fell in love with this series and New Zealand partway through. Totally by happenstance. I’m a series reader, and that’s my jam so total fluke. When it seemed like it was all coming to an end, I stopped but I had met Hayden and Luke in previous book. I didn’t know that I needed to go on. One of the reasons I love this author is that her characters are so engaging and emotional and on spot. There’s not perfection just honesty. This was my favorite book of the series. Which is hard to say because I’ve loved everyone of these people in all their brutal honesty.
September 11, 2023
Another excellent Rosalind James book
Rosalind James' books are always those that I cannot put down until they are read. They are Always always re-read! The story content is on point and the writing flows. the characters are definitely believable and the story line is always relative. Although I have never seen a Rugby game live and never been to New Zealand, her books have given me a great interest in the game and I definitely want to visit New Zealand. The series is excellent and I wholeheartedly recommend it
Rosalind James' books are always those that I cannot put down until they are read. They are Always always re-read! The story content is on point and the writing flows. the characters are definitely believable and the story line is always relative. Although I have never seen a Rugby game live and never been to New Zealand, her books have given me a great interest in the game and I definitely want to visit New Zealand. The series is excellent and I wholeheartedly recommend it
December 10, 2023
To The deepest part of my Heart
I Love this book. My love of this book has nothing to do with whether you are gay or straight. It has everything to do with getting to the heart of any person or any matter in the most empathetic, understanding and loving manner possible. This author writes amazingly heartfelt stories with amazing characters that I love so much. I have read her books over and over again any timeI feel like falling into these pages/lives she’s created, because it soothes my soul. Thank you Rosalind.
I Love this book. My love of this book has nothing to do with whether you are gay or straight. It has everything to do with getting to the heart of any person or any matter in the most empathetic, understanding and loving manner possible. This author writes amazingly heartfelt stories with amazing characters that I love so much. I have read her books over and over again any timeI feel like falling into these pages/lives she’s created, because it soothes my soul. Thank you Rosalind.
January 21, 2024
Excellent as always
I love this series and this is a worthy addition. As always, New Zealand shines, the scenery and the food. There are some familiar characters, always good to revisit them. There is humor, the scuffle with the vegetables made me laugh out loud. This was a sensitive portrayal of "coming out," the author should be commenting dead for another entertaining and thoughtful New Zealand story. It seems I can't get enough.
I love this series and this is a worthy addition. As always, New Zealand shines, the scenery and the food. There are some familiar characters, always good to revisit them. There is humor, the scuffle with the vegetables made me laugh out loud. This was a sensitive portrayal of "coming out," the author should be commenting dead for another entertaining and thoughtful New Zealand story. It seems I can't get enough.
February 3, 2024
A really lovely book.
When I realized this book was going to be about Luke and Hayden, I was sure at first that I wanted to read it. But once I began reading, I was hooked. Such a sweet and wonderful story about the need we all feel to love and to be loved. I have loved every book in this series, but this book most of all. Thank you Rosalind James for your stories. I love them all.
When I realized this book was going to be about Luke and Hayden, I was sure at first that I wanted to read it. But once I began reading, I was hooked. Such a sweet and wonderful story about the need we all feel to love and to be loved. I have loved every book in this series, but this book most of all. Thank you Rosalind James for your stories. I love them all.
October 9, 2024
I read this romance to give Rosalind James another chance, and I did like this better than Kiwi Rules ... but still, so much insta-love! So no more Rosalind James for me. But it was a fuller glimpse into New Zealand culture, thanks to all of the rugby, so that's something.
September 11, 2023
Hayden and Luke have an instant attraction, but they have several obstacles to meet in order to be together. Both of their families have certain expectations that are about to be shattered, and exes have left damage in their wake. But they both have supportive siblings and friends who help them navigate the situation. I'm just so glad Hayden got an HEA.
September 19, 2023
A LGBTQ+ Romance
I was curious about this gay romance book so I read it. Rosalind does such a great job on her “traditional” relationships I wondered how she would write from the LGBTQ+ perspective. She did a great job endearing the characters and walking you through the development of their romance. It’s a short, quick read.
I was curious about this gay romance book so I read it. Rosalind does such a great job on her “traditional” relationships I wondered how she would write from the LGBTQ+ perspective. She did a great job endearing the characters and walking you through the development of their romance. It’s a short, quick read.
September 20, 2023
Just For Me
4.25 stars
I knew I would love Luke and Hayden. I just wish it was a little bit longer (especially since some of it was a repeat of Just Say Christmas) but on the other hand, I would hate to see them go through more drama unnecessarily. I do hate to see this series end. (But I’ve heard her other NZ series is just as good so it looks like that will be read soon.)
4.25 stars
I knew I would love Luke and Hayden. I just wish it was a little bit longer (especially since some of it was a repeat of Just Say Christmas) but on the other hand, I would hate to see them go through more drama unnecessarily. I do hate to see this series end. (But I’ve heard her other NZ series is just as good so it looks like that will be read soon.)
October 13, 2023
surprised
I didn’t know what to expect. M/M romance wasn’t something I was interested in reading but, it is after all Rosalind James so I knew it would be worth reading. Lovely story, written with her usual insight into relationships and gentle way with difficult situations. I truly enjoyed this book, but then again, she hasn’t written a bad one.
I didn’t know what to expect. M/M romance wasn’t something I was interested in reading but, it is after all Rosalind James so I knew it would be worth reading. Lovely story, written with her usual insight into relationships and gentle way with difficult situations. I truly enjoyed this book, but then again, she hasn’t written a bad one.
November 24, 2023
Breathtaking
I read these books for fantasy and the idea of love. Romance, far flung and exotic places. All of the Escape to New Zealand books have been a pleasure to experience. I have not ever read a more romantic m/m tale yet. Completely enjoyable
Careful, you might need a tissue
I read these books for fantasy and the idea of love. Romance, far flung and exotic places. All of the Escape to New Zealand books have been a pleasure to experience. I have not ever read a more romantic m/m tale yet. Completely enjoyable
Careful, you might need a tissue
September 10, 2023
Excellent Story!
Loved this story of Luke and Hayden. So much pain, courage and love. Two men made for each other. Thanks for telling their happy ending.
Enjoyed the way you used the voices of the children to educate the less enlightened adults. Well done all around.
Loved this story of Luke and Hayden. So much pain, courage and love. Two men made for each other. Thanks for telling their happy ending.
Enjoyed the way you used the voices of the children to educate the less enlightened adults. Well done all around.
September 15, 2023
Beautiful
I have loved the New Zealand stories for their poignancy and this one is no exception. I am straight, but who couldn't identify with the desire to be seen as you are and fully loved? It is a search that drives every human being.
I have loved the New Zealand stories for their poignancy and this one is no exception. I am straight, but who couldn't identify with the desire to be seen as you are and fully loved? It is a search that drives every human being.
September 24, 2023
A treasure of a love story!
I loved the gentleness and care in this book.
Truly showing the nervous anxiety that every relationship has in the beginning.
The selflessness of compassionate love is illustrated in this book.
Read it!!! This one is a treasure,
I loved the gentleness and care in this book.
Truly showing the nervous anxiety that every relationship has in the beginning.
The selflessness of compassionate love is illustrated in this book.
Read it!!! This one is a treasure,
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews